Common sense seems to be a blend of our natural instincts, our intuitive knowledge, our subconscious memories, our half-forgotten experiences, and our deepest feelings. Common sense is what you use when you "go with your gut."
Unfortunately, our common sense can be contaminated by propaganda. It can be overridden by superstition. It can be nullified when we allow opinions, based on entrenched customs and traditions, to affect our judgment. Remember, Jesus said, "The truth will make you free!" (John 8:32).
People today don't care about previous centuries' matters of faith. They aren't interested in complicated doctrinal debates. They will not listen to theological lectures concerning ancient decrees. Instead, they want practical solutions to their everyday problems. They want a commonsense gospel, and that's the kind of gospel Jesus presented.Over and over, Jesus advised questioners to "look at the fruit" and evaluate the results. When John the Baptist was in prison and sent men to ask if he was truly the Messiah, Jesus told them to examine the evidence (see Luke 7:20-22).
Jesus's first message was simple: He said, "[God] sent me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed" (Luke 4:18).
All of Jesus's teachings were like that. He said, "Love people; forgive enemies; accept little children; avoid violence; feed the hungry; visit the sick; tend to your own business; build on good foundations; plan ahead; don't evaluate people by their fine clothes or bank accounts; don't worry and fret about things you can't control; know when to cut your losses; learn to walk away from dead-end situations."
These wise words are relevant and beneficial for men and women of all ages, all races, and all religions. They are timeless. They are based on common sense.
We now live in a factual, scientifically oriented world. Our morals and our faith must reflect these circumstances. Churches, denominations, and religions that continue to push belief systems completely at odds with reality will not survive.
The sermons in this book are practical and relevant. They speak to the personal development, social relationship, and spiritual commitment problems of men and women today.
